Daylight saving time begins early Sunday morning, March 12—meaning Sunday will measure just 23 hours instead of the full 24 hours.

To celebrate, clocks should spring ahead one hour on Saturday night—or at 2 a.m. Sunday, to be exact.

Where does the daylight saving practice come from?
Although commonly thought of as originating with farmers, daylight saving time is observed to save energy, increase traffic safety and reduce crime, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, which regulates daylight saving time.

  • By shifting the day ahead an hour, one hour of daylight is moved from the morning to the evening, during which time people are more likely to spend time outside and reduce energy consumption indoors.

  • During daylight time, a greater amount of travel occurs during the daylight, which means better visibility for drivers.

  • With daylight stretching longer into the evening, more people are able to conduct business and personal errands during the day rather than going out at night, during which time more crime occurs.


Who observes daylight saving time?
States can choose whether to observe the practice. Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and most of Arizona have opted out of daylight saving time. However, if a state observes daylight saving time, the state must comply with federally mandated dates.

Has Texas considered opting out of daylight saving time?
Yes. State Rep. Jason Isaac, R-Dripping Springs, filed a bill in late February seeking to put an end to daylight saving time in Texas. If passed, the legislation would take effect Nov. 5.

When will it end?
Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. Nov. 5. Clocks will then be turned back an hour.